Topic : Case study
7. Due to the contemporary developments in the information technology and convergence, the accesses of adults and children to media including variety of entertainment have increased. The children have impressionable minds and the quality of entertainment would have a bearing on them even when they grow adults. One moderately rich family has two children who have given mobile phones to their children with internet connection so that they can complement their studies with huge amount of information and aids available on the internet. Father encourage children to ‘grow with the technology of their times’ and rather than ‘forcing discipline’ on them. However, there is also misuse of information technology. The students are engaging in many undesirable activities outside the school, especially their exposure to many computer games (Blue Whale Challenge, Dead Space 2, Mortal Kombat, Medal of Honour, Call of Duty Black OPS, New Vegas etc.), which are known to be fatal and addictive, impinging on their education and value systems.
In this context, what steps parents can take to stop such new and pervasive kind of menace due to the unrestricted use of the computers and mobile phones? Also discuss importance of “forced discipline” in this case. (250 words)
Why the question:
The question is a case study based on the effect of growing technology on children.
Key Demand of the question:
Analyse the case study in detail and explain the steps that Parents need to take to avoid and stop the menace of gaming and other technology related issues on children.
Directive:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by explaining the fact that – In the contemporary world, we suffer from information explosion and are consumed by the influence of technology where the rational mind takes over the emotional mind.
Body:
Discuss the nuances of the case – As in the above case overuse of mobile phones are having detrimental effect on children. As children have low maturity level and have impressionable brains thus vulnerable to distractions.
Thus for disciplining children, parents have to take both carrot and stick approach as well as educating and creating awareness about the side effects of mobile phones.
“Carrots” are privileges that have to be earned or incentives that will motivate them to do complete their task. These rewards are such as watching television, playing a computer game, or going outside to play with their friends.
“Sticks” on the other hand, are punishment or disciplinary actions for work not done or when a child disobeys his or her parents. This punishment does not mean caning the child.
It is about emplacing the fear that will keep them away from the distractions. Apart from that parents should make sure that child has access to age appropriate online sites which do not promote unethical behaviour or violence.
They should also observe child’s behaviour closely to get to know about any unusual changes like moodiness, less or no communication, lack of interest in studies and falling grades.
Conclusion:
Conclude with importance of discipline and sometimes forced discipline.
